Blog

04
Sep, 2012

Preparations are underway for P.E.C.T.’s first show of the season

After a well deserved summer break, Prince Edward Community Theatre is back in the swing of things having started rehearsals on their first production of the Season, “Tuesdays with Morrie”.

“Tuesdays with Morrie” is an autobiographical story about Mitch Albom an accomplished journalist driven by his career, and his former college professor Morrie Schwartz who has been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Sixteen years after graduation, Mitch catches a television appearance by Morrie and learns of his condition. What starts as a simple visit turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class in the meaning of life.

Starring Michael Zaffino and David Smith, a grandson and grandfather team, “Tuesdays with Morrie” is a touching story told beautifully by the actors that will hook you and draw you in emotionally, says Georgia Papanicolaou who is producing for Prince Edward Community Theatre for the first time.

“Everyone has, at some point in their life, had to face a challenge and try to overcome feelings of loss or helplessness. It’s what we do to make the most of the time we have, that are the most meaningful and rewarding moments in our lives. I think that’s what people will connect with the most after they see this play, and one of the reasons why I’m so happy to be producing it.”

Michael Zaffino has been working with Prince Edward Community Theatre since its first show, “The Murder Room”. With the guidance and mentoring of Lynn Fennell, he has been able to increase in his abilities, including the lead role in “Funny Valentines”. While “The Melville Boys” had a comedic tone, it prepared Michael for his most dramatic turn yet in “Tuesdays with Morrie”. Having taught the novel for several years in secondary school, Michael is very familiar both professionally and personally with the character of Mitch Albom.

“I think we all can relate to Mitch. We have all been guilty at some point in our lives of putting our profession over family, love and true human connection. It’s novels like “Tuesdays with Morrie” that helps remind us, a life without love is truly an unfulfilled life.”

Michael’s grandfather David Smith has also acted for Prince Edward Community Theatre in “Quartet” during Season 3. Not having acted together before, Michael has been wanting to work along-side his grandfather ever since he started on P.E.C.T.’s stage. When Michael approached Lynn Fennell about producing this play and having it star a grandfather/ grandson duo, it was just a dream.

“It is ultimately my grandfather that sparked my interest in acting as a kid. I remember laughing at the thought that he would shave his head to play Daddy Warbux in a production of Annie. I was so glad that Lynn ultimately decided to do this play and allow my (almost) eighty year old grandfather to perform it with me. Its funny how life comes full circle.”

Season 5 was the perfect opportunity for Michael and David to work together, and the grandfather and grandson team have been working hard on their own since March. When it came to finally starting rehearsals in August they were well on their way to developing their characters says Georgia.

“Its wonderful to watch them working together. There is a closeness there that translates beautifully to the characters they are portraying. To be able to watch them develop with every rehearsal is such a treat. This is going to be a very special experience, and a show not to be missed.”

With productions underway since March and a special show made for the PSW students of Loyola School of Adult and Continuing Education, this play promises to be an excellent piece to be added to the ensemble of great plays that the Prince Edward Community Theatre has provided to the community.

Rehearsals continue on through September and October with the actors and the production team working hard behind the scenes to put together all the pieces to bring the audience an unforgettable night out at the theatre.

“Tuesdays with Morrie” plays on November 16, 17, 23, 24, at 8pm

Tickets can be purchased in advance for $14 by contacting Bonnie at 613.476.5925.

Season Subscriptions are also available until November 24th for only $36